Databases Reference
In-Depth Information
It is important to understand that the database administrator's role is to coor-
dinate troubleshooting and problem correction, but not necessarily to do the
actual troubleshooting and repair. The database administrator typically, but not
always, is responsible for handling problems relating to the database. For exam-
ple, if the problem turns out to be inherent in the data design, it then becomes
primarily the data administrator's responsibility.
However, database server problems aren't necessary related to the database or
DBMS. Hardware problems can occur as easily on a database server as on any other
type of computer. Connection problems could result from network failures or prob-
lems with the client computer. Even problems that might, at first glance, appear to
be data related could have a different source, such as the database application.
An important, but often overlooked, part of the troubleshooting process is
complete and accurate documentation. While troubleshooting a problem, you
should document the steps taken and their results, as well as the final resolu-
tion. Documenting the steps taken helps keep you from duplicating your efforts.
Documenting the final resolution provide a handy reference should you see the
same problem again in the future.
SELF-CHECK
•
List the responsibilities usually delegated to data administration.
•
List the responsibilities usually delegated to database administration.
9.3 Understanding Management Tasks
Up to now we have focused on what administrators must do without any consid-
eration for specific tasks, when they are required, or how they are accomplished.
The closer we focus on specific task details, the more we have to concern our-
selves with DBMS-specific issues. While some tasks are common to all DBMSs,
such as backing up and restoring data, the commands used and features sup-
ported can vary widely between DBMS implementations.
The goal of this chapter is not to make you a data or database administration
expert, but instead to give you an insight into what is involved with each respon-
sibility. You've been introduced to the responsibilities of each role, but a look at
some specific management tasks, along with how and when they are performed will
help you have a better understanding. Because of their more directly hands-on
nature, we'll focus on database administration tasks. We'll also look at some issues
relating to specific management tasks. Where there are DBMS-specific differences,
we'll be focusing on the tools and utilities provided with Microsoft SQL Server 2005.
